The folding carton industry prides itself on steady growth and stable earnings, much of which is based on the fact that most paper-based packaging is used for consumer staples. Nearly 60 percent of all paperboard packaging is destined for such food product segments as beverages and dairy products, candy and confections, dry foods including cereals, and frozen foods like meats and vegetables. The balance services these vital industries: pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and personal care products and soaps, household maintenance products, toys, sporting goods and most of the items found in grocery or club stores.
In 2017, the last year for which complete figures are available, the North American industry shipped 4.9 million tons of paperboard packaging with an average value per ton of $1,711, according to the Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC). This is nearly identical to the past few years; in 2016 and 2015, the industry shipped the exact same amount — 4.9 million. In 2016, the value per ton was $1,753, a slight decrease from 2015, which saw a value per ton of $1,765. So, while shipments have remained static, values have continued to slip. This trend is expected to change in the coming years.